As the industry leader in secure login solutions, Yubico has stepped up. They recently created a new initiative to address the increasing threat of phishing to teens. Scarily, 62 percent of Gen Z said they fell victim to phishing scams in the last year. This shocking figure is a call-to-action for all of us to find solutions that work. The company’s philanthropic program, Secure it Forward, is at the forefront of this effort, providing communities with phishing-resistant security keys to enhance digital safety.
In partnership with the Best Buy Foundation, Yubico is set to distribute nearly 600 of these keys to approximately 30 Teen Tech Centers across the country. Together, this partnership gives young people the tools to help them live their lives safely online. It empowers them with the tools, information, and confidence to be positive agents of change online.
Understanding the Phishing Threat
Phishing is still one of the biggest threats to internet users, especially young teens who are generally more vulnerable to online scams. A recent Gen Z Cybersecurity Survey conducted by Yubico found that Gen Z is the most at-risk demographic today. In fact, most of them have experienced phishing attacks already. The survey’s alarming results highlight an urgent need to educate and inform families about the digital world.
As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, Yubico emphasizes that digital safety must evolve from being an optional concern to a fundamental necessity. This change in mindset is a big deal. Young people are going further into online spaces to learn, socialize, and have fun.
The Secure it Forward Initiative
Yubico’s Secure it Forward initiative is a positive step in the right direction to meet these challenges head on. This program aims to ensure access to phishing-resistant security keys, especially in underserved communities lacking these resources. By collaborating with entities such as Best Buy Foundation, Yubico is further multiplying their reach and impact.
For Olivia Jefferson, vice president of social impact at Best Buy, this collaboration is a big deal. She noted that the partnership’s aim is much bigger than just handing out security keys. In addition, it aims to inspire a new culture of safety and awareness among the continent’s youth. Jefferson’s insights reflect a commitment to ensuring that young people are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital world.
With Secure it Forward, Yubico brings together educational resources, community collaborations, and innovative security technologies. It’s this holistic approach to building up teens with the skills and knowledge they need to stay safe online that makes them feel better protected.
Building a Safer Digital Future
Yubico and Best Buy Foundation’s partnership is about more than a distribution program. Through this collaboration, our communities are taking a bold step toward a safer digital age. We believe that our work can help create a just and equitable future for all. They know that it starts with giving users access, increasing awareness and building confidence.
Yubico is launching phishing-resistant security keys into all Teen Tech Centers. This campaign does more than just arm teens with practical skills. It helps to initiate critical dialogues around online safety. This initiative encourages young people to take an active role in their online security practices, fostering a sense of responsibility as they engage with technology.
The partnership’s ultimate goal is clear: to create an environment where young individuals feel empowered in their digital interactions. Yubico and Best Buy Foundation are taking some powerful steps to address phishing and online threats. They are using resources like Secure it Forward to help mitigate those risks by sizeable margins.
